Lactulose for bowel evacuation

ABSTRACT

A method of treating an adult patient in need of bowel evacuation via the administration of one or more doses of a bowel evacuant consisting of a total of from about 180 g to about 220 g of lactulose in a dosing regimen suitable to achieve bowel evacuation prior to a diagnostic, therapeutic or surgical procedure is disclosed.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Colonoscopy is the endoscopic examination of the colon and the distalpart of the small bowel with a CCD camera or a fiber optic camera on aflexible tube passed through the anus. It may provide a visualization ofthe colon and allows the physician to ascertain the presence ofulceration and/or polyps, and also provides the opportunity for biopsyof polyps or removal of suspected polyps/lesions. Colonoscopy is animportant procedure for the screening, prevention and diagnosis of anumber of diseases of the colon, especially colorectal cancer. In orderto perform a useful colonoscopy, a complete evacuation of the contentsof the bowel is required. In this regard, numerous purgative productshave been developed for this purpose.

Adequate preparation of the colon is essential for complete colonoscopywith proper visualization of the mucosa. A great deal of effort has beendevoted to improving the methods of colonic preparation. Polyethyleneglycol has been used widely as a method for bowel cleansing, but leavesa significant percentage of patients receiving poorly prepared for theircolonoscopy. This necessitates another bowel cleansing, and causescancellation of the initially scheduled procedure, and in some casescancellation of the procedure altogether by the patient.

While various methods of bowel preparation are used prior tocolonoscopy, there is no general “gold standard” procedure. Useful bowelpreparations are those that provide adequate visualization of the bowelwith minimal patient discomfort or side effects. Most preferably, thebowel preparation must be acceptable to the patient. It should alsopreferably be inexpensive and easy for the patient to self-administer.In the past, both rectal and oral preparations, alone or in combination,have been used to cleanse the colon. Enemas have in the past been apreferred option because they quickly clear the bowel and require nodietary restrictions compared to oral preparations, however are notoften used due to patient acceptability.

It has been established that adenomatous polyps are precursors ofcancer, and that removal of these polyps can prevent colorectal cancer.For this reason, the development of screening methods for earlydetection of these established precursors of cancer has receivedincreasing attention. These screening methods include computedtomographic (CT) colonography and magnetic resonance (MR) colonography.

Recent randomized trials comparing different methods of bowelpreparations have considered the quality of bowel preparation as thefocus of their study.

For example, Gidwani, et al., “A Prospective Randomized Single-blindComparison of Three methods of Bowel Preparation for Outpatient FlexibleSigmoidoscopy”, Surg Endosc (2007) 21: 945-949 (Abstract published inGastrointest Endosc 2004; (59 (5): 127) reported a study concerning theperformance of out-patient flexible sigmoidoscopy prospectivelyrandomized to 3 groups: group 1: one Fleet enema 2 hours pre-procedure;group 2: two Fleet enemas, one on the evening prior to sigmoidoscopy andone 2 hours preprocedure; group 3: lactulose 30 ml orally 48 and 24hours prior to sigmoidoscopy, plus a single Fleet enema 2 hourspre-procedure. A patient questionnaire was used to assess side effectsand tolerance. There was no significant difference between the groups interms of depth of insertion (p=0.42—chi-squared test) or abnormalitiesnoted (p=0.34—chi-squared test). Nor was there any difference in thequality of preparation of patients in group 1 versus group 2(p=0.39—Fishers exact test) or group 1 versus group 3 (p=0.13—Fishersexact). However, it was reported therein that lactulose+Fleet resultedin significantly fewer patients with acceptable preparation comparedwith those who administered two Fleet enemas (p=0.02—Fishers exacttest). The authors concluded that the addition of a Fleet enema or orallactulose over and above a single Fleet enema gives no significantimprovement in the acceptability or efficacy of bowel preparation. Thisstudy further concluded that a single phosphate enema 2 hourspre-procedure is an effective method of bowel preparation for flexiblesigmoidoscopy, and provides an acceptable quality of bowel preparationin approximately four of every five patients. The addition of a singlephosphate enema or oral lactulose over and above this standard regimenwas considered by the authors to be more costly and time consuming, andthe addition of an extra enema or lactulose did not alter patientacceptability or quality of bowel preparation.

Florie, et al. “MR Colongraphy with Limited Bowel Preparation Comparedwith Optical Colonoscopy in Patients at Increased Risk for ColorectalCancer” (Radiology: Volume 243, Number 1, April 2007) prospectivelyevaluated the diagnostic performance of magnetic resonance (MR)colonography by using limited bowel preparation in patients with polypsof 10 mm or larger in diameter in a population at increased risk forcolorectal cancer, with optical colonoscopy as the reference. MRcolonography was performed within 2 weeks prior to optical colonoscopy.All patients started preparation 48 hours prior to MR colonography witha low-fiber diet (only well-cooked, nonfibrous vegetables and meat, nofibrous fruit, no whole-wheat cereal products, no nuts), together withingestion of 12 g of lactulose powder in 6-g packets (Lactulose CF;Centrafarm, Etten-Leur, the Netherlands) dissolved in water once per day(in the morning) for stool softening. An oral contrast agent thatcontained 10 ml of gadolinium in a dose of 0.5 mmol/ml (gadopentetatedimeglumine, Magnevist; Schering, Berlin, Germany) was added to allmajor meals during this period (6 meals over 2 days) for stool tagging.If the stool became too soft (diarrhea), patients were allowed to reducethe amount of lactulose. In a questionnaire, patients were asked aboutstool consistency prior to imaging and whether they reduced the amountof lactulose. Patients ingested 4-6 L of polyethylene glycol electrolytesolution (KleanPrep; Helsinn Birex Pharmaceuticals, Dublin, Ireland) forbowel preparation on the day before the examination (in patients whoingested 6 L, the last 2 L of that amount was ingested on theexamination day). Optical colonoscopy was used as the referencestandard. Optical colonoscopy was performed with a standard colonoscope.Of the 168 patients, 77 (38%) of the patients had diarrhea sometimeduring the bowel preparation; in 48 of these patients, diarrhea occurredjust prior to imaging. Thirty seven patients reduced the amount oflactulose (all but one did so only on the last day). Prior to imaging in191 patients, a spasmolytic agent was administered. One hundredforty-nine patients received butylscopolamine bromide, 42 receivedglucagon, and nine received no spasmolytic agent. On average, 1.9 L ofwater-gadolinium mixture was used to fill the colon. Two patients hadconsiderable leakage; in 11, leakage was minor. MR colonography was welltolerated.

Florie, et al., “Feasibility Study of Computed Tomography ColonographyUsing Limited Bowel Preparation at Normal and Low-dose Levels Study”(Eur Radiol (2007) 17: 3112-3122) evaluated limited bowel preparationcomputed tomography colonography (CTC) using an oral contrast agent(amidotrizoic acid) in terms of image quality, patient acceptance andpolyp visualization using conventional colonoscopy as a referencestandard. Four weeks prior to the conventional colonoscopy, patientswere asked to ingest amidotrizoic acid (20 mg/ml, made by the hospitalpharmacy, 11.7 mg I/ml; corresponding to approximately 30 times dilutedGastrografin370®) three times a day (100 ml at breakfast and lunch, 300ml at dinner) with a low-fiber diet (well cooked vegetables and meat, nofibrous fruit, no whole-wheat products, no nuts) starting 2 days priorto CTC. Lactulose (12 g, lactulose CF powder 6 g/sachet, Centrafarm,Etten-Leur, The Netherlands) was taken in the morning for 3 days priorto CTC for stool softening. Twenty mg of butylscopolaminebromide(Buscopan; Boehringer-Ingelheim, Ingelheim, Germany), whencontraindicated, 1 mg of glucagon hydrochloride (Glucagen; Novo-Nordisk,Bagsvaerd, Denmark) was administered intravenously. The colon wasinsufflated with a CO2-air mixture (13.2% vol.) using a flexiblecatheter until patients experienced discomfort (±2-3 l). Patients werescanned in prone and supine position with a four-sliceMX8000(PhilipsMedical Systems, Best, The Netherlands) CT scanner (120 kV,rotation time 0.75 s, pitch 1.25, collimation 4.*2.5 mm, sectionthickness 3.2 mm, and reconstruction interval 1.6 mm, 50 or 70milliampere-second (mAs); 70 mAs if the abdominal circumferencewas >102.5 cm, scan time 20-25 s). Prior to CC, each patient wasinstructed to ingest 4 l of a macrogol solution (Colofort macrogol 4000sachets, Ipsen, Hoofddorp, The Netherlands), starting on the eveningprior to the CC. The authors took the position that the studydemonstrated that CTC without cleansing is preferred to colonoscopy andshows moderate sensitivity (60-67%) for polyps of at least 10 mm in sizewithout impaired diagnostic value at mSV levels as low as 0.7 mSv.

Florie, et al. “MR Colonography With Limited Bowel Preparation”(Radiology Volume 245: Number 1, October 2007) evaluated magneticresonance (MR) colonography with limited bowel preparation compared withfull-preparation colonoscopy in participants at increased risk forcolorectal cancer. All participants were prepared with a low-fiber diet,lactulose, and an oral contrast agent 48 hours before MR imaging. Allwere sent a list summarizing what dietary measures were necessary (nofiber-rich food, no nuts). The lactulose (12 g Lactulose CF powder [6 gper sachet]; Centrafarm, Etten-Leur, the Netherlands) was dissolved inwater and taken both days before MR colonography in the morning forstool softening. If the stool became too soft, participants were allowedto reduce the amount of lactulose (asked in questionnaire 2). Tenmilliliters of a gadolinium chelate (gadopentetate dimeglumine 0.5mmol/mL, Magnevist; Schering, Berlin, Germany) was added to all majormeals during this period (six meals over 2 days) for stool tagging.Questions about stool consistency (diarrhea, soft stool, normal shaped),abdominal pain (yes, no), and flatulence (yes, no) were asked inquestionnaire 2. Participants ingested 4 L of polyethylene glycolelectrolyte solution (Klean-Prep; Helsinn Birex Pharmaceuticals, Dublin,Ireland) for bowel preparation the day before conventional colonoscopy(if the examination was performed in the morning) or 2 L on the daybefore and 2 L on the day of the examination (if the examination wasperformed in the afternoon). If necessary, additional solution wasingested. Participants were not allowed to eat after starting the bowelpreparation. The colonoscopy was performed with a standard scope. Theauthors concluded that the study results showed that most (65%)participants at increased risk for colorectal cancer prefer MRcolonography with limited bowel preparation to colonoscopy for theirnext examination when there is a 20% chance of having to undergo atherapeutic colonoscopy afterwards. In a questionnaire completed at homeat least 5 weeks after the procedures, fewer participants preferred MRcolonography, but most (65%) still preferred MR colonography withlimited bowel preparation. This preference was mainly based on thelimited bowel preparation necessary for MR colonography and the factthat less pain was experienced during MR colonography. Filling of thecolon with water and the multiple breath holds necessary were consideredthe most burdensome factors of MR colonography.

Urita, et al. “Hydrogen Breath Test as an Indicator of the Quality ofcolonic Preparation for Colonoscopy” (Gastrointestinal Endoscopy Vol.57, No. 2, 2003), reported the results of a study where patientsundergoing colonoscopy were instructed (after fasting overnight) toingest a polyethylene glycol solution containing 12 g lactulose at arate of 50 ml every 5 minutes for 2 hours. The preparation forcolonoscopy was judged to be poor in 18% and adequate in 82% of thepatients.

U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,718,197 and 7,687,075 (Skiendzielewski, et al.)describe colonic purgative compositions in a solid tablet dosage form,comprising at least one purgative (e.g., sodium phosphate or lactulose)and at least one soluble, nonfermentable binder, such as polyethyleneglycol. The compositions are designed to improve patient tolerance andcompliance, while at the same time improving the quality of bowelcleansing prior to diagnostic and surgical procedures and are said to beuseful in lower dosages as a laxative to promote elimination and/or torelieve constipation.

Due to their efficacy in constipation, prescription osmotic laxativeslike Kristalose®, the dry powder form of lactulose marketed byCumberland Pharmaceuticals Inc., have received some attention fromgastroenterologists for use as a bowel evacuant prior to colonoscopy,but these effects have not been formally studied or documented. Patientsreportedly regard this bowel preparation regimen as being more tolerablethan traditional regimens. Kristalose is an FDA-approved drug for thetreatment of chronic constipation and is a generic version of lactulosewhich has been in use for more than 30 years.

Currently, there are multiple purgatives approved for bowel evacuationprior to colonoscopy and these products are often described as foultasting, harsh, and too voluminous. Therefore, a product and regimenthat is more acceptable to patients would be beneficial. A morepalatable and convenient process may increase patient compliance andsatisfaction.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In accordance with the above objectives and others, the presentinvention is directed in part to a method of treating an adult patientin need of bowel evacuation by administering a bowel evacuant treatmentconsisting of consecutive doses of lactulose administered in a dosingregimen suitable to achieve bowel evacuation prior to a diagnostic,therapeutic or surgical procedure.

The present invention is further directed to a method of treating anadult patient in need of bowel evacuation by administering a bowelevacuant treatment consisting of a total of from about 180 g to about220 g of lactulose administered in a dosing regimen suitable to achievebowel evacuation prior to a diagnostic, therapeutic or surgicalprocedure. In certain preferred embodiments, the lactulose isadministered in 1 dose, or the total dose is split into a plurality ofdoses from about 2 to about 22 doses, administered at suitable timeintervals to effectuate bowel evacuation.

In certain preferred embodiments, the bowel evacuant treatment comprisesor consists of a plurality of doses of lactulose administered atsuitable time intervals to effectuate bowel evacuation for a total ofabout 2 to about 12 doses prior to a diagnostic, therapeutic or surgicalprocedure, such that the total dose of lactulose administered during thedosing regimen is from about 180 g to about 220 g. In certainembodiments, the dosing begins on the evening prior to the diagnostic,therapeutic or surgical procedure and the lactulose is administered inone dose or divided doses over a suitable time period to effectuatebowel evacuation in the patient. In certain preferred embodiments, themethod further comprises administering the lactulose in dosages of about10 to about 50 g each.

In preferred embodiments, the lactulose is administered in a suitableclear liquid such that a total of about 2 to about 2.5 liters of liquidare ingested along with the lactulose. In certain preferred embodiments,the clear liquid is water.

In certain preferred embodiments, the lactulose is administered atsuitable time intervals until the total dose is of lactulose isadministered. In certain preferred embodiments, the method includesadministering the first dose of lactulose at about dinnertime on theevening prior to a diagnostic, therapeutic or surgical procedure, andthereafter administering additional doses of lactulose at suitable timeintervals until the total dose is of lactulose is administered.

In certain preferred embodiments, the lactulose in the doses areadministered about every 30 to about every 60 minutes, or to about every120 minutes, until the total dose of lactulose is administered,depending, e.g., on the number of divided doses required for the patientto ingest the entire dose of about 180 g to about 220 g of lactulose.For example, in embodiments where the lactulose is administered in about9 divided doses, the doses may be administered about every 30 minutesuntil the total dose of lactulose is administered. In embodiments wherethe lactulose is administered in about 4 doses, the doses may beadministered about once every hour (for four hours) until the total doseof lactulose is administered. In certain embodiments, the lactulose maybe administered in one dose. Alternatively, the dose of lactulose isdivided into larger amounts (i.e., greater than 20 g to about 120 g),and the number of doses reduced, such that the total dose of lactuloseadministered being from about 180 g to about 220 g. Alternatively, eachdose of lactulose may be a different amount, with the total dose oflactulose administered being from about 180 g to about 220 g.Alternatively, the lactulose dose may start off as a relatively largedose (e.g., about 40 g to about 120 g) and decrease in subsequent dosesadministered to the patient at suitable time intervals, with the totaldose of lactulose being from about 180 g to about 220 g over the courseof treatment. Alternatively, the lactulose dose may start off as arelatively small dose (e.g., 10 g or 20 g) and increase in subsequentdoses administered to the patient at suitable time intervals, with thetotal dose of lactulose being from about 180 g to about 220 g over thecourse of treatment.

In preferred embodiments, the method further comprises instructing thepatient to fast and only drink clear liquids during the administrationof the lactulose doses and continuing until after the completion of thediagnostic or surgical procedure.

In certain preferred embodiments, the lactulose is supplied to thepatient in the form of a powder. In certain further preferredembodiments, the lactulose is supplied to the patient in the form of oneor more packets, each containing from about 10 to about 220 g oflactulose in powder form.

In certain preferred embodiments, the lactulose is combined withsuitable additional ingredients, e.g., a suitable mount of a stoolsoftener to aid in the evacuation of the colon of the patient(s).Alternatively, or in addition to the stool softener, in certain furtherpreferred embodiments, the lactulose is combined with a suitable mixtureof electrolytes to replenish the electrolytes excreted by the patient(s)as a result of the dosing regimen. Such additional ingredients are notbowel evacuants, but rather aide in the method of treatment.

In embodiments of the invention in which the lactulose is supplied inpowder form, the methods further comprise instructing the patient todissolve the lactulose in a suitable amount of liquid prior to ingestingthe same. The amount of liquid can be varied, depending on the amount oflactulose to be administered as a single dose. In one such embodiment,the lactulose is supplied as 20 g of lactulose powder and is dissolvedin about 4 ounces (about 120 ml) of water. This is preferablyaccomplished by instructing the patient to dissolve the lactulose powderin water by pouring the lactulose powder into the water while stirringuntil the crystals are dissolved, such that the resulting solution is aclear, colorless to a slightly pale yellow color.

The bowel evacuation procedure may be performed prior to any diagnosticor surgical procedure requiring bowel, gastrointestinal or colonevacuation. Such procedures include but are not limited to colonoscopy,sigmoidoscopy, barium enema examination, colon surgery, gastrointestinaltesting, fiberoptic screening, pilloscopy viral colonoscopy,gastrointestinal surgery, colostomy, ileostomy, computed tomographycolonography (CTC), and magnetic resonance (MR) colonography. In certainpreferred embodiments, the methods of the invention are used for thetreatment of adult human patients prior to carrying out a colonoscopy, afiberoptic screening colonoscopy, a virtual colonoscopy, asigmoidoscopy, a computed tomography colonography (CTC), a magneticresonance (MR) colonography, or a flexible sigmoidoscopy.

In additional embodiments, the invention is directed to a method ofpreparing an adult human for a diagnostic, therapeutic or surgicalprocedure requiring bowel evacuation, comprising ingesting a bowelevacuant treatment comprising or consisting of separate or consecutivedoses of 20 g lactulose administered every 30 minutes for a total of 9doses beginning on the evening prior to the diagnostic or surgicalprocedure. This dosing regimen is particularly suited for situations inwhich the diagnostic, therapeutic or surgical procedure requiring bowelevacuation is scheduled to take place the following morning, but canalso be suitable to procedures the following afternoon.

In other embodiments, the invention is directed to a method of preparingan adult human for a diagnostic, therapeutic or surgical procedurerequiring bowel evacuation, comprising ingesting a bowel evacuanttreatment comprising or consisting of separate or consecutive doses oflactulose at suitable time intervals beginning in the evening prior tothe diagnostic, therapeutic or surgical procedure, and thereafteringesting the remaining dose(s) of lactulose at suitable intervals thenext morning, such that the total dose of lactulose administered duringthe dosing regimen (course of treatment) is from about 180 g to about220 g. This dosing regimen is particularly suited for situations inwhich the diagnostic, therapeutic or surgical procedure requiring bowelevacuation is scheduled to take place in the afternoon, rather than inthe morning. For example, in this embodiment, 20 g lactulose may beadministered every 30 minutes for a total of 4-6 doses beginning on theevening prior to the diagnostic, therapeutic or surgical procedure, andthereafter 2-8 additional doses of 20 g lactulose may be administeredevery 30 minutes the next morning (the morning of the diagnostic,therapeutic or surgical procedure), such that the total dose oflactulose administered is from about 180 g to about 220 g.Alternatively, the dose of lactulose is divided into larger amounts(i.e., greater than 20 g), and the number of doses reduced, such thatthe total dose of lactulose administered being from about 180 g to about220 g. Further, the lactulose doses may be divided into differing dosesover the course of treatment, with the total dose of lactuloseadministered being from about 180 g to about 220 g. For example, thelactulose may be administered as larger doses (e.g., from about 30 g toabout 80 g lactulose) per dose in the evening prior to the procedure andadministered in smaller doses (e.g., from about 10 g to about 40 glactulose per dose) on the morning of the procedure, with the total doseof lactulose administered being from about 180 g to about 220 g.Alternatively, the lactulose dose may start off as a relatively largedose (e.g., about 40 g to about 120 g) and decrease in subsequent dosesadministered to the patient at suitable time intervals, with the totaldose of lactulose being from about 180 g to about 220 g over the courseof treatment. Alternatively, the lactulose dose may start off as arelatively small dose (e.g., 10 g or 20 g) and increase in subsequentdoses administered to the patient at suitable time intervals, with thetotal dose of lactulose being from about 180 g to about 220 g over thecourse of treatment.

As a general rule, the lactulose may be dissolved in a proportion of 4ounces or 120 ml of clear liquid (e.g., water) per 20 g lactulose.However, a person having ordinary skill in the art will appreciate thatthis proportion is variable on many factors, including temperature andthe particular clear liquid used. All such obvious variations of thepresent invention, and other variations that would be obvious to thosepersons having ordinary skill in the art, are contemplated to be withinthe scope of the appended claims.

In certain preferred embodiments, the patient is instructed to drinkfrom about 2 to about 2.5 liters of fluid (e.g., water, apple juice or asports drink (e.g. Gatorade®)) on the day before the colonoscopy (about60 to about 80 ounces, or about 1775 ml to about 2366 ml).

In certain embodiments, the dosing regimen of lactulose is about nine 20g doses (dissolved in fluid as per above, one dose every 30 minutes for4 hours) taken the evening before the colonoscopy procedure. In certainpreferred embodiments, if the patient has a history of constipation oris chronically being administered a lot of laxatives, the patient maythen be administered two additional doses of 20 g (each dose) oflactulose, for a total of eleven 20 g lactulose doses, instead of 9doses. Alternatively, the dosing regimen may comprise one additionaldose of 40 g. In embodiments in which the lactulose is supplied inpowder form, the patient may therefore be administered that 40 g dosecontained in one or more packets. For example, the 40 g dose may becontained in two additional containers (e.g., packets) of lactulose,each containing 20 g lactulose.

In certain embodiments of the invention, the patient is instructed totake a suitable dose of lactulose every 30 minutes such that from about8 to about 15 doses of lactulose are administered over the course oftherapy, containing a total of from about 180 to about 220 g lactulose,in accordance with the above-described methods of the present invention.

In further embodiments of the invention, the dosing regimen consists ofone packet of lactulose that contains the entire dosage of lactulose forthe dosing regimen (e.g., about 180-220 g lactulose), which can bedissolved in a pitcher. The patient then ingests the mixture in suitabledivided dosages over the requisite period of time (e.g., from about 3 toabout 6 hours on the night prior to the diagnostic, therapeutic orsurgical procedure requiring bowel evacuation).

In other embodiments of the invention, the dosing regimen consists offour packets of lactulose that together contain a total of from about180 to about 220 g lactulose (such that each packet contains from about45 g to about 55 g lactulose. The patient could then ingest the mixturein divided doses over a suitable time period, e.g., four doses takenonce an hour for four hours.

In certain other embodiments of the invention, the dosing regimenconsists packets of lactulose that together contain a total of fromabout 180 to about 220 g lactulose, such that each packet contains fromabout 45 g to about 110 g lactulose.

In certain preferred embodiments, the method further comprisesinstructing the patient to drink at least about 64 ounces of water,apple juice or a sports drink (e.g. Gatorade®) throughout the day beforethe diagnostic, therapeutic or surgical procedure (e.g., colonoscopy).Therefore, in such preferred embodiments, the patient ingests, inaddition to the 36 ounces of water that are used to mix the Kristalose,for a total fluid amount of 100 ounces.

In certain preferred embodiments, the method further comprisesinstructing the patient to begin ingesting the first dose of lactuloseat about 5 pm the evening prior to the day on which the diagnostic,therapeutic or surgical procedure (e.g., colonoscopy) is to beperformed, if at all possible.

In certain preferred embodiments, the patient is instructed to ingest alow-fiber diet prior to the diagnostic, therapeutic or surgicalprocedure (e.g., colonoscopy), preferably from about 3 to about 4 daysprior to the day on which the diagnostic, therapeutic or surgicalprocedure (e.g., colonoscopy) is to be performed.

Further embodiments of the invention are directed to a kit for use in aregimen for bowel evacuation, the kit including a bowel evacuanttreatment consisting of from about 1 to about 22 containers oflactulose, containing a total of from about 180 g to about 220 glactulose (e.g., in correspondingly divided doses to the number ofcontainers). For example, the bowel evacuant treatment may comprise orconsist of about 9 containers (e.g., packets), each container containing20 grams of lactulose in powder form. In certain preferred embodiments,the container is a pouch or a packet. In certain embodiments, the kitmay further comprise a measuring and/or mixing device. In yet furtherembodiments, the kit includes a patient record for recording the timeand/or number of doses and/or amount of the dose ingested. The patientrecord may be a device which allows the patient, or a third person(e.g., physician, nurse practioner or nurse, friend or family member) toelectronically or by hand writing record the ingestion of doses (dosenumber and/or dosage and/or time of administration). An electronicdevice may further include a wired or wireless mechanism or means fortransferring the recorded data to someone overseeing the therapy, e.g.,a physician or nurse. In certain preferred embodiments, the kit furthercomprises instructions for dissolving the powder. In certain preferredembodiments, the kit further comprising instructions for the patient toself-administer the lactulose by dissolving lactulose contained in eachpouch as a dose in a suitable amount of water (e.g., about 4 ounces per20 g lactulose) by pouring the lactulose powder into water whilestirring continuously until the crystals are dissolved and the resultantsolution is a colorless to a slightly pale yellow, and ingesting thedose every 30 minutes for a total of 9 doses beginning on the eveningprior to a diagnostic or surgical procedure.

In certain embodiments, the kit includes from about 1 to about 6additional containers (e.g., packets) of lactulose, preferably about 2additional containers (e.g., packets), each containing holding 20 glactulose. In such embodiments, the patient is instructed whether or notto ingest the additional packets (doses) of lactulose. In certainpreferred embodiments, the patient is instructed to ingest theadditional doses of lactulose if the patient has a history ofconstipation or is chronically being administered a lot of laxatives. Incertain preferred embodiments, the kit therefore would include, e.g.,about 11 packets of lactulose.

A method of the present invention may be used to cleanse the colon priorto carrying out a diagnostic, therapeutic or surgical procedure on thecolon, rectum or anus or elsewhere in the abdomen. A diagnostic orsurgical procedure may, for example, be colonoscopy, barium enemaexamination, sigmoidoscopy or colon surgery. The method of the presentinvention may also be used in the treatment of acute gastrointestinalinfections, for example bacterial or viral gastroenteritis.

As used herein the term “treat,” “treating” or “treatment” refers to theadministration of lactulose to an adult individual who is in need ofbowel evacuation.

As used herein the term “container” encompasses enclosures for thelactulose with or without optional additional (nonlaxative) ingredients,preferably made out of a moisture resistant material. In certainpreferred embodiments, the container comprises foil packets. It alsoencompasses bags, films, tubes, bottles, and boxes, preferably made outof a moisture resistant material.

As used herein, the term “bowel evacuant” or “bowel evacuant treatment”refers to an active agent that causes bowel evacuation, and does notencompass other agents which may aid in the process such as electrolytesand stool softeners. The phrase “bowel evacuant treatment consisting of. . . lactulose” is meant to exclude the administration/inclusion ofother bowel evacuant agents, such as polyethylene glycol.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Lactulose is a colonic acidifier which promotes laxation. The chemicalname for lactulose is 4-O-b-D-Galactopyranosyl-D-fructofuranose. Themolecular formula is C12H22O11. The molecular weight is 342.30. It isfreely soluble in water.

Lactulose is a disaccharide: a sugar molecule composed of two smallersugar molecules, fructose and galactose, bonded together. Lactulose ispoorly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract and no enzyme capable ofhydrolysis of this disaccharide is present in human gastrointestinaltissue. As a result, oral doses of lactulose reach the colon virtuallyunchanged. In the colon, lactulose is broken down primarily to lacticacid, and also to small amounts of formic and acetic acids, as well ascarbon dioxide gas, by the action of colonic bacteria, which results inan increase in osmotic pressure and slight acidification of the coloniccontents. This in turn causes an increase in stool water content andsoftens the stool, hence the common use of lactulose as a laxative.Lactulose has been in use as a laxative for more than 30 years. Inpatients with a history of chronic constipation, lactulose therapyincreases the number of bowel movements per day and the number of dayson which bowel movements occur.

The lactulose product used in the present invention may be any productthat is commercially available. It may be in a syrup or liquid form, ormay be dispensed to the patient in the form of a dry powder which isreconstituted by the patient prior to ingestion at the beginning of thebowel preparation for colonoscopy.

In a preferred embodiment, the lactulose product is Kristalose®, a drypowder form of lactulose (syrup/liquid formulation) which iscommercially marketed by Cumberland Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Kristalose isan FDA-approved drug for the treatment of chronic constipation.

Kristalose is a synthetic disaccharide in the form of crystals forreconstitution prior to use for oral administration. Each 10 g oflactulose contains less than 0.3 g galactose and lactose as a total sum.The pH range is 3.0 to 7.0. Kristalose (Lactulose) for oral solution isavailable in single dose packets of 10 g (NDC 66220-719-01) and singledose packets of 20 g (NDC 66220-729-01). The packets are currentlysupplied as follows: NDC 66220-719-30 (Carton of thirty 10 g packets)and NDC 66220-729-30 (Carton of thirty 20 g packets). Kristalose isprepared for administration by dissolving the contents of a packet inhalf a glass (4 ounces) of water. When Lactulose For Oral Solution isdissolved in water, the resulting solution may be colorless to aslightly pale yellow color.

A study in patients with chronic constipation has been completed forKristalose to evaluate patient preference between powder (Kristalose)and liquid lactulose in terms of overall preference, taste, consistency,and portability; and safety in terms of adverse events. Three sitesrandomized patients (total N=50) to powder or liquid lactulose for 7days with crossover. Patient preference was assessed by a questionnaire,and the occurrence of adverse events was monitored. Of those expressinga preference, 44% and 57% more patients preferred the taste andconsistency, respectively, of powder over liquid lactulose. More thansix-times as many patients preferred the portability of powder comparedto liquid lactulose, and overall, 77% more patients preferred powderover liquid lactulose. There was no difference between treatment groupsin terms of adverse events (p=0.635). A manuscript describing this studyis in press at Clinical and Experimental Gastroenterology and the studyis registered on clinicaltrials.gov (NCT00712543).

In certain preferred embodiments, the bowel evacuation performed inaccordance with the present invention is accomplished prior to carryingout a diagnostic, therapeutic or surgical procedure on the colon, rectumor anus or elsewhere in the abdomen. The diagnostic or surgicalprocedure may, for example, be colonoscopy, barium enema examination,sigmoidoscopy or colon surgery, gastrointestinal testing, fiberopticscreening, pilloscopy viral colonoscopy, gastrointestinal surgery,colostomy or ileostomy. In certain preferred embodiments, the bowelevacuation is performed prior to carrying out colonoscopy, fiberopticscreening colonoscopy, virtual colonoscopy, sigmoidoscopy, computedtomography colonography (CTC), magnetic resonance (MR) colonography, orflexible sigmoidoscopy.

In accordance with the methods of the present invention, the adultpatient(s) in need of bowel evacuation is administered (orself-administers) a dosing regimen designed to provide the patient witha total dose of from about 180 g to about 220 g lactulose, dissolved ina suitable amount of water, in a plurality of doses, and preferably fromabout 4 to about 12 total doses. The dosing regimen further includes theingestion of a total of from about 2 to about 2.5 liters of clearliquid. The lactulose is preferably dissolved in all or part of thistotal amount of fluid. Thus, in certain preferred embodiments, thedosing regimen may comprise a total of 9 separate doses of lactulose,each dose comprising 20 g lactulose dissolved in about four ounces (120ml) of clear liquid (e.g., water).

Alternatively, the dosing regimen may comprise 40 g or lactulose inabout 8 ounces of clear liquid administered 5 times over 4 hours.

In other embodiments, the dosing regimen may comprise a total of 8separate doses of lactulose, each dose comprising 22.5 g lactulosedissolved in about five ounces (150 ml) of clear liquid.

The doses are preferably administered, e.g., at 30 minute time intervalsbeginning at around 5-6 pm the evening before the procedure requiringbowel evacuation.

A person having ordinary skill in the art would appreciate that onecould modify these dosing regimens and still obtain the required totaldose of lactulose and liquid administered over a suitable amount of timeto effectuate suitable bowel evacuation of the patient(s).

One such dosing regimen could consist of one packet of lactulose thatcontains the entire dosage of lactulose for the dosing regimen (e.g.,about 180-220 g lactulose), which can be dissolved in a pitcher with asuitable amount of clear liquid (e.g., about 36-44 ounces or about1-1.32 liters). The patient could then ingest the mixture in divideddoses over a suitable time period (e.g., four doses taken once an hourfor four hours, or eight doses taken once every 30 minutes for fourhours, and the like).

Another such dosing regimen could consist of four packets of lactulosethat, in total, from about 180 to about 220 g lactulose (such that eachpacket contains from about 45 g to about 55 g lactulose. The patientcould then ingest the mixture in divided doses over a suitable timeperiod, e.g., four doses taken once an hour for four hours.

In certain additional preferred embodiments, the dosing regimen may bemodified for situations where the procedure requiring bowel evacuationis not scheduled until the next afternoon following the beginning oftreatment with lactulose. In such embodiments, the bowel evacuanttreatment may comprise or consist of separate or consecutive doses oflactulose administered at suitable time intervals (e.g., every 30minutes) for a total of 2-4 doses beginning on the evening prior to thediagnostic or surgical procedure, and thereafter at least 1 dose or atleast 2 additional doses of lactulose administered at suitable timeintervals (e.g., every 30 minutes) the next morning. A person havingordinary skill in the art would appreciate that one could modify thesedosing regimens and still obtain the required total dose of lactuloseand liquid administered over a suitable amount of time to effectuatesuitable bowel evacuation of the patient(s).

All permutations of the dosing regimens outlined above are considered tobe equivalents of the present methods set forth herein and claimed, andare considered to be encompassed by the appended claims.

Further, it should be understood that in the above embodiments andothers, the total amount of lactulose and the total number ofadministered doses may be modified to suit the particular situation andthe needs of the patient. Thus, it is contemplated that the dosingregimens of the present invention may comprise from about 1 to about 22containers (e.g., packets) of lactulose containing in total from about180 g to about 220 g lactulose, in accordance with the above-describedmethods of the present invention.

Regardless of the dosing regimen, the invention herein describedcontemplates the co-administration of a total of from about 2 to about2.5 liters of clear liquid. Clear liquids are defined for purposes ofthe present invention as liquids that are easy to see through and topour.

Clear liquids include, but are not limited to, water, clear fruit juices(such as apple or cranberry juices), clear sodas (e.g., ginger ale orlemon-lime soda, but not cola), an electrolyte replacement and/or sportdrink (e.g. Gatorade®), tea or coffee (without milk, cream, flavoredcream, or creamer substitutes), clear soup broths (e.g., a bouillon cubedissolved in water, without any additional ingredients), and the like.

A clear liquid diet is not nutritionally adequate and should only befollowed for a short period of time. The patient can ingest gelatin withno fruit or other ingredients, or ice pops, with no fruit pulp or fruitbits in them, or hard candy to provide some nutrition during the dosingregimen.

Due to the loss of electrolytes that are passed from the body in thestool of the patient, in certain preferred embodiments the dosingregimen also includes a dose(s) of electrolytes to replace theelectrolytes passed from the body in the stool. In certain preferredembodiments, the electrolytes included in the dosing regimen include oneor both of the following salts: sodium chloride in an amount from about5 g to about 12 g, and preferably from about 5.4 g to about 11.5 g;potassium chloride in an amount from about 0.5 g to about 4 g, andpreferably from about 0.7 to about 3 g. In certain preferredembodiments, the dosing regimen further includes the followingbuffers/acids: sodium bicarbonate in an amount from about 0 to about 7g, and preferably from about 2.8 to about 6.75 g; sodium sulfate in anamount from about 0 to about 23 g, preferably from about 15 g to about22.75 g; ascorbic acid in an amount from about 0 to about 12 g; andsodium ascorbate in an amount from about 0 to about 12 g. It should beemphasized that these amounts are total amounts of the ingredient overthe entire dosing regimen. It is further contemplated that theseingredients can be appropriately divided and admixed in, e.g., equallydivided doses together with the lactulose powder and placed in acontainer (e.g., packet) for reconstitution with clear liquid by thepatient. Alternatively, the electrolyte can be separately contained incontainers (e.g., packets) to be dissolved along with a packet oflactulose. In yet other embodiments, the electrolytes may simply beseparately (from the lactulose) added to the total volume of clear fluidand administered to the patient.

In certain preferred embodiments, the dosing regimen further includesthe administration of a stool softener such as colace (also known asdioctyl sodium sulfosuccinate or docusate sodium). In certain preferredembodiments, the total amount of colace administered over the dosingregimen is from about 50 mg to about 360 mg. It is further contemplatedthat the colace can be appropriately divided and admixed in, e.g.,equally divided doses together with the lactulose powder and placed in acontainer (e.g., packet) for reconstitution with clear liquid by thepatient. Alternatively, the colace can be separately contained incontainers (e.g., packets) to be administered along with a packet oflactulose. In yet other embodiments, the electrolytes or the stoolsoftener (e.g., colace) may simply be separately administered to thepatient during the dosing regimen.

Further embodiments of the invention are directed to a kit for use in aregimen for bowel evacuation. The kit includes a bowel evacuanttreatment consisting of, e.g., a suitable number of containers (e.g.,packets) containing lactulose, such that the total amount of lactulosecontained in the packets is from about 180 g to about 220 g. In certainpreferred embodiments, the kit includes a bowel evacuant treatmentconsisting of from 1 to about 22 containers (e.g., packets), eachcontainer containing a suitable dose of lactulose in powder form, suchthat the total amount of lactulose contained within the containers inthe kit is from about 180 g to about 220 g. In certain preferredembodiments, the kit includes a bowel evacuant treatment consisting offrom about 8 to about 12 containers (e.g., packets; preferably 9packets), each container containing a suitable dose of lactulose inpowder form (e.g., 20 g). In certain additional preferred embodiments,the kit may further include from about 1 to about 6 additionalcontainers (e.g., packets) of lactulose, preferably about 2 additionalcontainers (e.g., packets), each containing holding another suitabledose of lactulose (e.g., 20 g). Further embodiments of the invention aredirected to a kit for use in a regimen for bowel evacuation. The kitincludes a bowel evacuant treatment consisting of, e.g., a suitablenumber of containers (e.g., packets) containing lactulose, such that thetotal amount of lactulose contained in the packets is from about 180 gto about 220 g.

In certain preferred embodiments, the kit further includes a dose of oneor more of the above-mentioned electrolytes and buffers/acids. In suchembodiments, the dose of one or more of the above-mentioned electrolytesand/or buffers/acids may be contained as divided doses together with thedoses of lactulose. On the other hand, the kit may include separatecontainers (e.g., packets) containing divided doses or one total dose ofthe above-mentioned electrolytes and/or buffers/acids, along withinstructions for administration.

The following example represents specific embodiments of the presentinvention, and is not representative of the entire scope of theinvention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Example 1

In Example 1, 20 patients were enrolled in a single center, open-label,pilot study in adult patients requiring bowel evacuation for colonoscopySafety, efficacy, and patient tolerability/preference of Kristalose as abowel evacuant, and pre- and post-dose hydrogen and methane gasproduction were assessed.

The primary objective of the study was to determine whether Kristalosecauses a potentially dangerous increase in hydrogen and/or methane gaslevels in patients requiring bowel evacuation. Therefore, to evaluatethe primary objective of hydrogen and methane gas production, pre- andpost-dose breath analysis for hydrogen and methane gas was measured.

The secondary objectives of this study were to determine the efficacy ofKristalose as a bowel evacuant, as assessed by the physician'sdetermination of the cleanliness of the colon; to determine theincidence of treatment failure (Boston bowel prep score <5, and/or anycolon segment score of 0); to evaluate the patient tolerability of andpreference for Kristalose as a bowel evacuant as assessed by a patientquestionnaire (Table 1); and to evaluate the safety of Kristalose as abowel evacuant, as determined by the incidence and severity of treatmentemergent adverse events. Table 1 is set forth below:

To evaluate the secondary objective of efficacy, the following endpointswere be measured: Physician's determination of the cleanliness of thecolon will be evaluated by completion of the Boston bowel prep scale;and the number and percentage of patients who by the physician'sdetermination are considered treatment failures (patients withinsufficient evacuation of the bowel=Boston bowel prep score <5, and/orany colon segment score of 0, as determined by the Boston bowel prepscale).

Other secondary objectives of the study of Example 1 included evaluatingthe safety of Kristalose as a bowel evacuant, as determined by theincidence and severity of treatment emergent adverse events; andevaluating the secondary objective of efficacy.

The physician's determination of the cleanliness of the colon was beevaluated by completion of the Boston bowel prep scale. The Boston BowelPreparation Scale was developed for evaluating the quality of bowelpreparation during colonoscopy. The preparation scales uses a numberfrom 0 to 3 to rate each of three sections of the colon; the rightcolon, the transverse colon, and the left colon. Decimal point scoresshould not be used. The individual segment scores are then summed for atotal score ranging from 0 to 9. The hepatic flexure and the splenicflexure will be considered parts of the transverse colon using thescale. These scores should be assigned to the colon segment based uponthe appearance after any maneuvers; such as washing, suctioning, ormovement of debris and are meant to be applied during the withdrawalphase of colonoscopy.

The secondary objective of efficacy was evaluated by the physician'sdetermination of the cleanliness of the colon. This was accomplishedUsing the Boston Bowel Preparation Scale, a segment score of 0 (zero)describes an unprepared colon segment with mucosa not seen due to solidstool or thick liquid stool that cannot be cleared. A segment score of 1describes a segment where a portion of mucosa of the colon segment seen,but other areas of the colon segment not well seen due to staining,residual stool and/or opaque liquid. A segment score of 2 describes asegment where in there is a minor amount of residual staining, smallfragments of stool and/or opaque liquid, but mucosa of colon segmentseen well. Finally, a segment score of 3 describes a segment wherein theentire mucosa of colon segment seen well with no residual staining,small fragments of stool or opaque liquid. Each segment of the colon(Right, Transverse (the Transverse Colon, and Left is should be ratedbased on the cleanliness of the colon from 0 to 3; then the entire scoreis added.

The secondary objective of efficacy was also evaluated by the number andpercentage of patients who by the physician's determination areconsidered treatment failures (patients with insufficient evacuation ofthe bowel=Boston bowel prep score <5, and/or any colon segment score of0).

Safety was evaluated on the basis of the treatment of emergent adverseevents.

Each patient received a total of 9 pouches of 20 grams of Kristalose.Each pouch of Kristalose is dissolved into 4 ounces of water by pouringthe Kristalose powder into the water while stirring continuously untilthe crystals are dissolved. When Kristalose for oral solution isdissolved in water, the resulting solution is a colorless to a slightlypale yellow color.

Participants will take took a total of nine 20-gram doses of Kristalose,one dose every thirty (30) minutes for four consecutive hours theevening before the colonoscopy procedure (before the patient wentgoes tobed—Table 2). Dosing the night before the procedure was consistent withother bowel preps. The physician will also instructed the patient tofast and only drink clear liquids during this dosing period and up untilthe completion of the colonoscopy procedure (see Patientinstructions—Table 2). In order to be eligible for participation in theanalysis, patients must completed the prescribed regimen (as recorded inthe patient diary).

TABLE 2 Dosing Schedule

The package insert for Kristalose states that enteric bacteria mayconvert a portion of the dose into hydrogen and methane gases.Production of these gases may cause a risk to the patient during cauteryendoscopy procedures, as the cautery may ignite these gases at levelsabove their established explosive threshold during the procedure causinga fire or explosion. Therefore, each subject underwent a breath analysisassessment within 15 to 180 minutes prior to the colonoscopy procedureto determine whether lactulose causes an unsafe buildup of thesehydrogen and methane gases. The hydrogen risk threshold is 40,000 ppmand the methane threshold is 50,000 ppm, the established levels abovewhich combustion may occur. Patients with gas levels above thesethresholds may still undergo colonoscopy but were not to be offeredpolypectomy with cautery because of the risk of explosion; thus somepatients (perhaps 5%) may need to repeat their colonoscopy at some pointin the near future if a large polyp is found and cannot be removed. Theprimary endpoint (hydrogen and methane gas production) was be assessedin all patients who complete the study drug dosing regimen and safetywas assessed in all patients who took at least one dose of study drug.

The demographics of the subjects who participated in the study are setforth in Table 3 below:

TABLE 3 Demographics N 20 Gender 15 female/5 male* Age (yrs.) Mean (SD)57.5 (11.6) Range (30.3-83.6) Height (in.) Mean (SD)  67 (3.8) Range(61-75) Weight (lbs.) Mean (SD) 164 (47)  Range (117-293) *All patientswere white and non-hispanic

The results of the study are set forth in Table 4 below:

TABLE 4 Breath Analyses Breath Hydrogen Level Pre-Prep Mean (SD) 13 (17)(Baseline) range  (2-74) Breath Hydrogen Level Post-Prep Mean (SD) 44(44) range  (1-175) Breath Methane Level Pre-Prep Mean (SD) −2 (4)(Baseline) range (−5-16) Breath Methane Level Post-Prep Mean (SD)   −3(0.6) range (−6 to −2) Bowel Cleanliness Boston Bowel Prep Score Mean(SD)  7.5 (1.36) Median 8.0 Range (4.0-9.0) Treatment Failure (BostonBowel Prep Score <5 or any 1/20^(#) (5%) segment score of 0) Incidence(%) Preference/Questionnaire No. of Patients with Previous Bowel Prep 158* GoLytely, 2* Fleets Phospho Soda, 1 Visical, 5 Unknown No.(%) ofPatients with Previous Bowel Prep that 15 (100%) Preferred CrystallineLactulose Bowel Prep ^(#)Patient did not take 64 oz. of additional fluidas instructed *One patient had two previous bowel preps

CONCLUSION

It will be readily apparent to one of ordinary skill in the relevantarts that other suitable modifications and adaptations to the methodsand applications described herein are suitable and may be made withoutdeparting from the scope of the invention or any embodiment thereof.While the invention has been described in connection with certainembodiments, it is not intended to limit the invention to the particularforms set forth, but on the contrary, it is intended to cover suchalternatives, modifications and equivalents as may be included withinthe spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the followingclaims.

1. A method of treating an adult patient in need of bowel evacuation byadministering at least one dose of a bowel evacuant treatment consistingof a total of from about 180 g to about 220 g of lactulose in a dosingregimen suitable to achieve bowel evacuation prior to a diagnostic,therapeutic or surgical procedure.
 2. The method of claim 1, furthercomprising administering the bowel evacuant treatment in a plurality ofdoses of lactulose at suitable time intervals for a total of about 2 toabout 22 doses prior to a diagnostic, therapeutic or surgical procedure.3. The method of claim 1, further comprising administering the bowelevacuant treatment in a plurality of doses of lactulose administered atsuitable time intervals to effectuate bowel evacuation for a total ofabout 2 to about 12 doses prior to a diagnostic, therapeutic or surgicalprocedure.
 4. The method of claim 3, wherein the doses are administeredabout every 30 to 60 minutes until the total dose of lactulose isadministered.
 5. The method of claim 4, further comprising administeringthe lactulose dissolved in a suitable clear liquid, and administering atotal of about 2 to about 2.5 liters of clear liquid in addition to theamount of fluid contained in the doses of lactulose administered to thepatient.
 6. The method of claim 2, further comprising administering thefirst dose of lactulose at about dinnertime on the evening prior to adiagnostic, therapeutic or surgical procedure, and thereafteradministering additional doses of lactulose at suitable time intervalsuntil the total dose is of lactulose is administered.
 7. The method ofclaim 6, further comprising administering the lactulose in dosages ofabout 10 to about 110 g each.
 8. The method of claim 6, furthercomprising dissolving each dose of lactulose in a suitable amount ofclear liquid prior to administering the lactulose dose to the patient.9. The method of claim 7, further comprising dissolving the dose oflactulose in a proportion of about 20 g lactulose per 120 ml clearliquid.
 10. The method of claim 1, wherein the diagnostic, therapeuticor surgical procedure is to be conducted in the afternoon, furthercomprising administering a plurality of doses of lactulose at suitabletime intervals in the late evening on the day prior to the diagnostic,therapeutic or surgical procedure, and thereafter ingesting theremaining doses of lactulose at suitable time intervals the nextmorning.
 11. The method of claim 1, further comprising instructing thepatient to fast and only drink clear liquids during the administrationof the lactulose doses and continuing until after the completion of thediagnostic or surgical procedure.
 12. The method of claim 6, wherein thebowel evacuation procedure is being performed prior to a procedureselected from the group consisting colonoscopy, sigmoidoscopy, bariumenema examination, colon surgery, gastrointestinal testing, fiberopticscreening, pilloscopy viral colonoscopy, gastrointestinal surgery,colostomy, ileostomy, computed tomography colonography (CTC), andmagnetic resonance (MR) colonography.
 13. The method of claim 10,wherein the bowel evacuation is performed prior to carrying out acolonoscopy, a fiberoptic screening colonoscopy, a virtual colonoscopy,a sigmoidoscopy, a computed tomography colonography (CTC), a magneticresonance (MR) colonography, or a flexible sigmoidoscopy.
 14. The methodof claim 8, wherein the procedure is a colonoscopy, further comprisingperforming the colonoscopy without polypectomy with cautery.
 15. Themethod of claim 1, further comprising instructing the patient to drinkfrom about 2 to about 2.5 liters of fluid on the day before thecolonoscopy, in addition to the amount of fluid contained in the dosesof lactulose administered to the patient.
 16. The method of claim 1,wherein the patient has a history of constipation or is chronicallybeing administered a lot of laxatives, further comprising instructingthe patient to ingest at least two additional doses of 20 g (each dose)of lactulose.
 17. The method of claim 1, further comprising instructingthe patient to begin ingesting the first dose of lactulose promptly atabout 5 pm the evening prior to the day on which the diagnostic,therapeutic or surgical procedure (e.g., colonoscopy) is to beperformed.
 18. The method of claim 12, further comprising instructingthe patient to ingest a low-fiber diet prior to the diagnostic,therapeutic or surgical procedure from about 3 to about 4 days prior tothe day on which the diagnostic, therapeutic or surgical procedure(e.g., colonoscopy) is to be performed.
 19. The method of claim 5,further comprising administering a stool softener to the patient duringthe bowel evacuant treatment.
 20. The method of claim 5, furthercomprising administering an additional agent selected from the groupconsisting of electrolytes, buffers/acids, and mixtures thereof duringthe bowel evacuant treatment.
 21. The method of claim 5, furthercomprising administering effective amounts of an additional agent duringthe treatment selected from the group consisting of sodium chloride,potassium chloride, sodium bicarbonate, sodium sulfate, ascorbic acid,sodium ascorbate, and mixtures of any of the foregoing.
 22. The methodof claim 5, further comprising administering additional agents duringthe treatment comprising sodium chloride in an amount from about 5 g toabout 12 g; potassium chloride in an amount from about 0.5 g to about 4g; sodium bicarbonate in an amount from about 0 to about 7 g; sodiumsulfate in an amount from about 0 to about 23 g; ascorbic acid in anamount from about 0 to about 12 g; and sodium ascorbate in an amountfrom about 0 to about 12 g.
 23. The method of claim 22, furthercomprising admixing suitable amounts of the additional agents with thelactulose and packaging the mixture in separate containers.
 24. A methodof preparing an adult human for a diagnostic, therapeutic or surgicalprocedure requiring bowel evacuation, comprising administering to ahuman patient a bowel evacuant treatment consisting of a plurality oflactulose doses in an amount of about 20 g dissolved in a clear liquidadministered every 30 minutes for a total of 9 to about 11 dosesbeginning on the evening prior to the diagnostic or surgical procedure,such that a total of about 180 g to about 220 g lactulose isadministered.
 25. A kit for use in a regimen for bowel evacuation of ahuman patient prior to a diagnostic, therapeutic or surgical procedure,said kit including a bowel evacuant treatment consisting of divideddoses of a bowel evacuant consisting of lactulose, together withoptional additional ingredients selected from electrolytes,buffers/acids, a stool softener, and mixtures of any of the foregoing,the kit containing total amount of lactulose from about 180 g to about220 g.
 26. The kit of claim 25, wherein the kit comprises from about 9to about 11 containers, each container containing about 20 grams oflactulose in powder form.
 27. The kit of claim 26, further comprisinginstructions for the patient to self-administer the lactulose bydissolving lactulose contained in each pouch or packet as a dose inabout 4 ounces of water by pouring the lactulose powder into water whilestirring continuously until the crystals are dissolved and the resultantsolution is a clear, colorless to a slightly pale yellow, and ingestingthe dose every 30 minutes for a total of at least 9 doses beginning onthe evening prior to a diagnostic or surgical procedure.
 28. The kit ofclaim 26, wherein the kit includes from about 1 to about 6 additionalpouches or packets of lactulose, and instructions for the patient toingest additional doses of lactulose if the patient has a history ofconstipation or is chronically being administered a lot of laxatives.29. The kit of claim 25, further comprising an effective dose of a stoolsoftener to be administered to the patient during the bowel evacuanttreatment.
 30. The kit of claim 25, further comprising an effective doseof electrolytes and buffers/acids to be administered to the patientduring the bowel evacuant treatment.
 31. The kit of claim 30, whereinsaid electrolytes and buffers/acids comprise effective amounts of anadditional agent selected from the group consisting of sodium chloride,potassium chloride, sodium bicarbonate, sodium sulfate, ascorbic acid,sodium ascorbate, and mixtures of any of the foregoing.
 32. The kit ofclaim 30, further comprising a dose of electrolytes and buffers/acidsselected from the group consisting of sodium chloride in an amount fromabout 5 g to about 12 g; potassium chloride in an amount from about 0.5g to about 4 g; sodium bicarbonate in an amount from about 0 to about 7g; sodium sulfate in an amount from about 0 to about 23 g; ascorbic acidin an amount from about 0 to about 12 g; and sodium ascorbate in anamount from about 0 to about 12 g.
 33. The kit of claim 32, wherein theelectrolytes and buffers/acids are contained in a single or multipleseparate packets with instructions for administration to the patient.34. The kit of claim 32, wherein the dose of electrolytes andbuffers/acids is divided and contained in the containers containing thelactulose doses.
 35. The kit of claim 25, further comprising a measuringand/or mixing device.
 36. The kit of claim 25, further comprising apatient record for recording the time and/or amount and/or number ofdoses ingested.
 37. The kit of claim 25, which comprises a single packetcontaining from about 180 g to about 220 g lactulose.
 38. The kit ofclaim 25, wherein the kit comprises about 4 containers, each containercontaining from about 45 g to about 110 g of lactulose in powder form.